Severe gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
